A former standout at Indiana, Mackenzie Mgbako has entered the transfer portal, sparking interest across college basketball circles. The 6-foot-9 forward, originally recruited by Duke before decommitting in spring 2023, averaged double-digit points during his tenure with the Hoosiers. Now, as he embarks on a new chapter, one of the programs vying for his talent is NC State, led by dynamic coach Will Wade. With two years of eligibility left, Mgbako's decision could significantly impact whichever team secures his services.

As a sophomore at Indiana, Mackenzie Mgbako made waves by co-winning the Big Ten Freshman of the Year award for the 2023-24 season. His contributions were notable, averaging 12.2 points and 4.6 rebounds per game. Over time, he refined his shooting skills, hitting 43.7% of his field goal attempts and connecting on 32.9% of his three-point shots. This improvement highlights his potential as a versatile player capable of making an immediate impact wherever he lands.

Among the schools pursuing Mgbako, NC State stands out under the leadership of Coach Will Wade. Recently, Mgbako visited the Wolfpack’s campus in Raleigh, signaling serious interest in joining their program. Wade, known for his strategic acumen, aims to bolster NC State's roster with such high-caliber talent. The visit underscores the competitive nature of this recruitment phase as multiple ACC programs vie for his commitment.

Duke, meanwhile, remains active in the transfer market but hasn't secured or lost any transfers this cycle. Fourth-year head coach Jon Scheyer continues to focus on strengthening his squad without significant additions thus far. As fans eagerly await updates, Mgbako's choice will undoubtedly influence ACC dynamics moving forward.

With numerous suitors lining up, Mackenzie Mgbako's decision looms large over college basketball recruiting. His ability to elevate a team's performance through scoring and rebounding prowess makes him a highly sought-after commodity. As the process unfolds, all eyes remain on which program can sway this talented forward to join their ranks, setting the stage for future successes on the court.